Sams Snippets

Day 23- Something you crave for a lot

2010-12-02T21:51:00.001+13:00

Hard one! ..... lets do a list

It shouldn't be at the top but Chocolate - GF brownie being the latest but any Dark good chocolate!
Happiness, Laughter and the feeling to be alive - this is a recent craving the more i get the more i want
My family - immediate and extended the older i get the more i'd love to really catchup like back in the day - I think of you all often! oh i can't wait for Christmas!
Knowledge - i love reading books on Health & Wellbeing, Cooking & Gardening
A White Christmas - one day i plan for my family to spend Christmas in the snow
Relaxation ... in many forms and any form i can get my hands on
Fresh Air xxx

Day 22- What makes you different from everyone else

2010-12-02T14:42:00.000+13:00

err .. my DNA?!!? ... seriously though, honestly i can't answer this.

I've been thinking and thinking about it lately (as you'll notice a few of these posts go up at once - but are written over days sitting on the browser until they seem 'complete') & this one i'm struggling with - this may be a reflection of my self esteem level? or my ability to attract people with the same views as mine?? i just don't know .....

I'd like to think i'm special and of course i am in the sense that there is no one else like me out there in this world we are living in ... but more than that, i'd like to think that the impact i make on those around me is one that isn't easily forgotten - But its hard to put into words here, I'm not one to boast about myself - yes i have talents & skills that not everyone has - we all do, but when i look at myself i just see me.

Actually i was talking to a friend about how somethings are unexplainable - like how they just are - the love you feel for someone or the way home is just home - and i'm thinking this is one of those things - maybe you need to tell me what you see .....

In an attempt to get comments from the many who frequent my blog ....

What do you see that makes me different?

Day 21- A picture of something that makes you happy

2010-12-02T14:11:00.002+13:00

i could put many photos here .. children's laughter, drawings, smiles, the beach, my beautiful rose garden, my friends, the smell of essential oils, a fresh batch of baking, any type of achievement, a room full of crafty supplies, my family, diving into a pool on a hot day, a massage, relaxation, yoga, inner piece, animals, butterflies, spending time muddling the water or laying in the sun feeling the warmth of the world we're in, an organised house, a room full of my family, a present made with love, the feeling of love, passion and touch, music, reading a good book (as in the non fiction type), a cup of herbal tea from my garden, rainbows ... the list goes on and theres things that shouldn't be written here on it as well ;)

But heres a picture that i love & plan to put on a canvas for myself one day (soon)

It makes me happy as it reminds me that i'm the one in charge of my life
- powerful stuff & oh to true -

Day 20- Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future

2010-12-02T13:02:00.002+13:00

He'll kill me for this but here:

I guess thats what can happen when you take a pic on your wifes phone and upload it as her wallpaper ..... (was great though i love the little things that people do to plan a smile on my face - they really make me melt!)

but seriously i should follow it with this one, its what he looks like most of the time during the work week:

This is my husband ... certainly the person i saw my future with.

Why? .. well our values match, hes an amazing father, has passion for most/if not all things he does, i can depend on him even though his job is full on, he really pays attention to the needs around him - he would stop and help anyone out almost to the point that he really does put others before himself, of course he has flaws but who doesn't (& lets face it i can live with and work on those ;) ), he puts his heart into our future in creation, he really has amazing talents in creating things and fixing things up to save a $ or two, he supports me and i know he really loves me unconditionally - i just hope i pay him the same back.

Love you Noodle!

Day 18- Plans/dreams/goals you have

2010-12-02T12:41:00.001+13:00

Okay so this is a long post if i sat down and wrote all thats in my head & its interesting timing as Mark said we should sit down and put another dream board together, but I don't have the time for that at the moment so heres just a wee something from my page who am i?:

(Also lets face it at the moment all i have to do is look around me and i'm where i want to be)

. . . . I aspire to . . . .

- Be Myself - Happy, Loved, and full of life.

- Be the best mum i can and teach my children the basics, while supporting them to be themselves.

- Learn the art of photography - to be the one behind the lens capturing the beauty in a picture forever.

- Always see that the highs of life are just around the corner, no matter how low i may be feeling.

- Let nature support me, as my family and i work with it to create gardens of self sufficiency with happy healthy lives.

-Love others as they love me, and show people the thanks they deserve.

- Smile daily and be thankful for the road i have walked thus far, in my path of life.

Day 19- Nicknames you have; why do you have them

2010-12-02T12:37:00.001+13:00

So at one stage in my teen years i can remember I sat down and counted 21 'nick-names' (maybe mostly thanks to having a big sister?) ... not sure i'd have than many now but lets see (not sure if i should be embarrassed or not about some):

My name: Samantha

& lets face it the main person that calls me that is mum - at least its not always when i've done something wrong these days although i still can hear her and the tone she uses if i am. I think some of my friends do use my full name to?

Nicknames....

Sam - obvious shorten and the name i get called the most
Samon - came about in my teens from somewhere and has now changed a touch to Samin - from hubby
Sammy - My Granddad calls me this mainly
Mama - From my other grandparents although the older i get the less they use it
Manfa - From my sister and parents i think originally my sister couldn't say Samantha? (i'm sure she can correct me if i'm wrong)
Saminanthina - From my sister followed with some originals - Runka & Chickamore .... maybe she can explain where they came from .... in response she got Dickwad & others i'm sure that i can't recall at present -- gotta love ya big sisters xx

Seems the others have faded away now isn't that the way as we move through life and friends change -- have to say i'm glad to have seen some slip away too haha!

But have i forgotten any? ... feel free to add them my lovelies xxx

Day 17- Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why

2010-11-24T11:22:00.000+13:00

Ok - so this made my mind wonder! ... i started thinking rich and famous ... then animals but i think I've settled on my husband .... odd choice you may think right? ... but i have some reasons for this:

I love my husband (again obvious fact) but like everyone we have our differences and i respect that, however to be him for a day i think it would help me gain more of an insight into why he does the things he does that irritate me .... then they may not irritate me and i'd live a bit more stress free ;)
I want to understand more about what he does and goes though in a day at his work ... and vis versa! a day with the kids is more of a challenge then it looks although may have to swap for longer than one day to learn this ;)
I could make a few changes while i was there right??
Relationships are ongoing work - its a fact and the work needs to be two sided or the relationship wont work so to see it from his view would interest me - yip call me curious!
Then again do i really want to learn more about him? ...... maybe i should swap with someone famous instead - hard choice though huh!

Day 16- Another picture of yourself

2010-11-24T11:01:00.000+13:00

Me on our wedding day (obviously?) @ Pukekura Park

... I love the way the dress sits in this photo...

I had my dress custom made by my Great Aunty Joan - so i never went though the experience of dress shopping with my mother. But it was all that i wanted it to be - Silver skirt with silver lace over white panel & halter top .... every bride has the right to feel like a princess & it was an amazing day!

I still can't rate our photographers - Roger & Bob from Freezeframe Fhotographics

highly enough - we were one of their earlier weddings they covered and they are an amazing team! ... always making sure the small details were sorted (down to the chain on my necklace!!) We had our photos before we said 'I do' and it was great to settle the nerves.

Day 15- Put your iPod on shuffle: First 10 songs that play

2010-11-24T10:39:00.000+13:00

I'm not lucky enough to have an iPod .... but heres the first 10 on my computer shuffle

John Mayer - Love Soon
Katy Perry - Fireworks
The Beatles - With a little help from My Friends
Pink Floyd - Another Brick in the Wall
Bon Jovi - Bed of Roses
Elton John - I Want Love
Split Enz - Message to My Girl
John Mayer - Comfortable
S V - Burn For You
Brooke Fraser - Without You

Interesting collection huh?! .. there is a fair bit of music i like thats not on the computer though

Day 14- A picture of you and your family

2010-11-23T14:26:00.001+13:00

Family ... well theres a word that sits close to my heart ... with Christmas coming up I really can't wait to catch up with the 'Blakes' my Mums, mums blood line - i haven't been to their Christmas gathering for years and i'm really looking forward to it as i have my own children to watch run around with the next generation of relies as I used to.

Its really hard though when you marry as all of a sudden your family doubles + you create one of your own, this Christmas my sister in law is back from the UK and i'd love to have my children spend Christmas with their auntie but we can't be everywhere ... i'm sure i'm not the only one that feels pulls

Okay ... so heres some photos ... BIG family photos!

... all of the family @ our wedding a few years ago now

Brown / Riddick Family - My Dads Bloodline

Blake / Fowler Family - My Mums Bloodline

and the family I Married into:

Hasler Family (Marks Mums side)

Goodin Family (Marks Dads side)

and i can't resist adding this family picture again from my sisters wedding:

I do love family pictures ... am hoping to get my sister to take some of my family at the beach when she is up at Easter 2011

Day 13- A letter to someone who has hurt you recently

2010-11-23T13:28:00.001+13:00

When I first read on the list that this post was coming up i thought that it would be great, a wonderful way to 'rid' any hurt i'm feeling, also as when i was younger letters seemed to be a big part of my communication with some friends & was important to me - looking back the letters were probably full of crap but still - theres nothing like receiving mail from those you love.

BUT to write a letter to someone whom has hurt me doesn't actually come naturally anymore for a couple of reasons:

It feels like i'm back in high-school writing notes to friends .. and honestly i'm not the person i used to be writing letters instead of just talking to someone anymore .... Yip i went thought a large amount of bullying at through-out my schooling - for whatever reason (Believe me - I've blamed it on every part of who i am at some stage) and instead of letting it control me I've moved past it. Past the crying, the low feelings and the time that i spent really caring about something that probably meant nothing to the other people involved. I've really learnt from it that if you want to let it affect you it will ... if you want to forget about it and move on then you will. End of the day there is only so much we can control in our lives and so long as we make the most from what we can then hurt will be overridden by happiness.
I see mail as a good thing now - and to send a letter of hurt or if i received one it would really hurt so i choose not to live that way.
I actually don't have any 'hurt feelings' in me ... i guess I've dealt with them!
Although I put my heart into all that I do - after talking to a friend last week I have learn't that to avoid getting hurt, don't set your expectations in others - just take them for who they are and concentrate on yourself - giving you 100% .... don't rely on others to 'make' you happy control it yourself.

The other big thing that i have learn't about hurt is that a lot of the time a person actually doesn't set out to hurt you ... sometimes they actually can't change the circumstances that have lead to your disappointment and feeling of hurt. If it does occur then the best thing to do is actually talk to the person/people involved asap and resolve the feelings rather than hold onto them and build a grudge as it really doesn't lead to happiness .... and honestly i'd choose happiness anytime over the feeling of hurt and disappointment.

Yip thats 'the new' me, full of warmth and love ... no room for hurt anymore - been there done that!! ... the world is a better place when you just smile.

(hope this makes sense .... its written amongst talking to the girls)

Day 12- How you found out about Blogger and why you made one

2010-11-23T12:22:00.001+13:00

well ... i think it was Hannahs blog over @ Rainbow Child that i was reading when i thought of creating my own - so just followed the instructions and created my space ... as its says above:
"A web page that i call my-own - among many in cyber space. It is a collection point for my inspiration, passion and creativity .... may it also inspire you with every breath"

Day 11- Another picture of you and your friends

2010-11-22T15:03:00.000+13:00

okay so i'm cheating here ... I've decided to share photos from my hubby's 30th celebrations that we had over the weekend. It was a great night with some friends and family, we stoked up the pizza oven and it was all go! I wanted to make him an R18 cake but he was a bit shy so i went with a banana & chocolate cake with his favorite - flakes & M&M's - so yum but man what are we meant to do with the half we have left? ..... i think its time to get out and exercise more!!

So he finally crawled into bed at 4am after hitting the top shelf .... needless to say - the day after was written off after we had cleaned up

Day 10- Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Bored, Hyped, Mad

2010-11-17T17:10:00.000+13:00

So my music i listen to huh?

Its rather varied from relaxation music or the radio to Pink Floyd or whatever Techno Mark has on, in that matter we also listen to a lot of children's rhymes and music, but me if i had my choice - I love John Mayer and he has a song for every mood ... even a Christmas song I found this morning (tis the season) - but one of his that sits above the rest is Comfortable ... actually i've only just changed the CD in the car to one thats not Mayer (or has him on it) since a close friend brought me his CD last Christmas.

Yesterday i took a liking to this song:

Firework by Katy Perry ... yes thanks to finding via MSN that a good friend was listening to it, i googled it found this clip and got hooked - such a great mood lifting song, not to mention the kids love dancing to it ;)

Heres the last mood lifting song i came across:

Something in the water by Brooke Fraser ... nothing like a good song to sing along to really.

When i'm sad or down quite often i find this slip into my head

Evanescence - My Immortal ... i quite often find watching this clip can get tears flowing.

But as a sum up ... I'd listen to anything, i'm not fussy with music just certainly have favorites - those strong lyric'd sing along ones ;)

Day 09- Something you’re proud of in the past few days

2010-11-17T14:48:00.000+13:00

okay ... so i'm posting one for each member of my family here, I'm so proud of all of them and often stop and think how grateful I am as well.

Mark:

Easy - how can you not be proud of such an accomplishment! .. he's one step of creating a pizza oven for our backyard!

Isn't it just so cool!

Emma:

Last night just before we had dessert she said a Karakia, this is from her learnings at preschool. Now it certainly wasn't perfect @ 9pm (when really she should have been in bed) .. there were actions and mumbles, but it was so heart warming for her to share something so special on her dads birthday.

Rebecca:

At such a young age (1.5yr) there are so many things to be proud of as a mother. One of these moments was her ability to help her sister set the table without aid from myself. In our family our girls help hands on with whats going on (so long as mums in the patient mood). This moment made me realise just how fast my baby is growing up - i know sometimes were so busy and keep treating them as babies, but when you start giving them the responsibility then they also become proud of themselves.

Myself:

This ones a hard one as i'm not that big on self gratitude.

I guess i'm proud of myself for getting the glasshouse weeded, composted & ready for another round of growth to feed the family - there really is nothing better then producing your own food.

Day 08- Short term goals for this month and why.

2010-11-17T14:19:00.000+13:00

I always have goals in my head but very seldom do i write them down (i should i know!) So heres this months:

Weed the gardens after the spring weed growth (then hopefully keep on top of them)
Provide my Husband with a 30th to remember - should be easy as we can hardly forget when the pizza oven was constructed
Start on my Santa Sewing list - This year i'm going back to basics with our family Christmas and making it 'Home Made' ... nothing like gifts constructed with love and thought - i hope to teach my children that Christmas is not commercial but about Family - making time to catchup with those whom you seldom see,
Try (i say try as its a big task for me) and sort out the office ... if i'm brave i'll take a before picture
Complete the 30 posts of me :) (yes you'll find there may be two or three per day now as i'm behind ;) )

Day 07- A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you

2010-11-17T14:07:00.001+13:00

The last biggest personal impact was the birth of my second child Rebecca, I love being a mum with my complete heart and then some if it was there to give them.

Life has certainly changed since I added such a responsibility, but not a day has come where I've regretted it. Passing on the traditions and values Mark and I both hold close from the teachings we've been given are endless and priceless. Watching our children grow fills me with true admiration for my own parents - respect over the decisions i never understood and understanding as to all the small things that didn't make me think twice at the time.

My children teach me something everyday (well on the days i'm open to learn from them). From the simple things like patience to helping me stop and open my eyes to just how amazing they are.

Of-course theres a part of me that misses independence and the freedom you have without the additions but it just makes the nights you get a break even more worth it.

With our kids came another impact on our life - we moved rural! and i love it ... - the open views of the mountain and sea

- the friendliness of the community

- the interactions our children have with the surrounding animals and nature

theres actually not much i miss about living in town at all one year after the big move.

Day 06- Favorite Superhero and Why

2010-11-15T21:05:00.001+13:00

I'm not one to follow superheros - not sure if thats a girl thing or not?

But when i think of superheros the first one that come to mind would be Superman.

Maybe it has more to do with watching the 1990 series of The New Adventures of Superman, Clark Kent (Dean Kane) & Louis Lane (Teri Hatcher), rather then superman himself.

In general though i do like that superheros help out the general population, coz lets face it life does get challenging and to think that maybe a super hero would turn up and help out in times of need is a tad reassuring right? (crazy to think as well but lets not talk about that) - and I for one know that I do have real superheros in my life ... my friends & family. It sure is amazing how at times they show up when things get tough & for that i love each and every one of them, they may never know just how much it means to me. ... and you never know some of them may lead double lives haha!

Day 05- A picture of somewhere you’ve been to

2010-11-15T19:58:00.000+13:00

So I haven't traveled the globe and don't see that happening any time soon but so far in my life I've jumped the ditch to Aussie years ago, been on a surprise honeymoon in Fiji, but the most eventful of all was travelling to Port Craig at the start of the year.

It was for my sisters wedding - now we always knew that her wedding would be somewhere remote and somewhat low key but this certainly topped the cake, for us anyway with a 11 month old and almost 3 yr old.

Our Journey:

Day One ....

Drive from New Plymouth to Auckland and stay the night at the lovely Bucklands Beach Motel with my Aunty ... at the end of the day the kids were pleased to get out of the vehicle

Day Two ....

Jump on a plane to Queenstown ...

Then drive to Tuatapere ... was great to get there and let the kids out i tell you!

Day Three ...

and where almost there!

This is the Port Craig Village .... note the 'lack of roads' ... to get to the venue you could either walk a few hours or grab a helicopter ride.

You guessed it! ... i'm not the fittest and with two children walking wasn't really an option after the journey thus far so we took the easy way while Hubby walked with the rest of the wedding guests.

I also had to get there early as i had a job to do ....

Emma helped as i iced the cake:

Day Four .....

We celebrated on the beach with sand-flys and all

Day Five:

Fly back out to Tuatapere

Day Six:

up before dawn to drive back to Queenstown for our flight back to Auckland

Then that night we trekked home to Taranaki ... the kids were besides themselves when we got home it was a mammoth task ... but it sure was for a wonderful reason and the memories are life long.

Day 04 - A habit that you wish you didn’t have

2010-11-12T14:44:00.000+13:00

Hording! .... I know I know just throw stuff away right?

but its just not that easy

The reason I wish I didn't horde things is because i think it would help me keep the house a tad more clutter free - i'd love to think that one day it would be clutter free anyway (I can dream right?)

It would also be great if everything could always be put back in its place and you'd know exactly where to find it. With a husband and two children i feel like i'm forever chasing my tail with this and would rather not feel like i spend most of my time cleaning up and putting things back - over spending time with my girls (who do at-times help me put things away of course)

BUT the reason that i'm glad that both myself and my husband horde, is because things ALWAYS seem to come in handy! Being a crafter i can normally see a way to use something by up-cycling it and i hate the idea that i'm adding to the tonnes of rubbish that head for landfills every year if i just throw things out - so i put things aside waiting for that moment of free time i can get-to and create the next master piece. Then the 'put-a-side' pile grows and so on until that one day you know exactly the thing your wanting to use.

I do have to mention however that after shifting house i'm so glad that we 'horded' the taps from the old bathroom we redecorated ... as they are now in use in our 'new' bathroom - perfect right, nothing better then saving money as well as putting items to use.

Also means that everyday i seem to be reminded that hording comes in handy so just de-stress and live amongst the slight amount of clutter we have from hording.

Day 03- A picture of you and your friends.

2010-11-11T13:23:00.000+13:00

Now here a tough one ... for some reason i'm normally behind the camera or all the photos are of the kids! ... but I've found a couple (that i hope no one minds me sharing here)

Firstly a bunch of greatly talented friends (some who left before a picture was taken) who get together weekly for a night off from the kids :) ... not sure where i'd be without these ladies they are so wonderful xx

Some more really great friends. These were taken on a night out in town

(Yip love you Mary - hope you don't kill me)

... we sure did have a great night too - whens the next one?

A friend I have had for life - My big sister Bobbie ... how beautiful is she!

And friends from Years ago ....

Nothing like digging up those old school photos huh - that was my last year at primary school.

Day 02- The meaning behind your Blog name

2010-11-10T21:24:00.002+13:00

No big story there ... just a name that was typed in as i started this blog.

however - i've recently started a new endevour called

and that name came about through brainstorming with a great friend, we threw all sorts of names at each other - until she mentioned Flat Tack - which stuck - i love it! .. and lately it describes many aspects of my life.

Heres the Blurb if you've missed it:

█║▌│█│║▌║││█║▌║▌║ ® MADE IN NEW ZEALAND ™

I'm one crafty mumma that loves to create unique items for my family. People asked me to start creating items for them

- I accepted & became Flat Tack.

theres a Facebook page too if you'd like to keep updated

Day 01- A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself.

2010-11-10T11:44:00.001+13:00

Right - starting at Day 1 (due to popular demand lol and delayed a day due to no time to think!)

..... taking a deep breath and here we go...... a recent picture is easy

This is me & my big girl just after I got my haircut (first true fringe in years!) and we were playing with the webcam

Shes just beautiful, a cheeky wee girl who captures my heart many times a day

(we have our 'moments' as well though)

now 15 interesting facts about myself ... not quite as easy but will start with some obvious ones and i'll try to make them interesting but no guarantees.....

I'm a mum to two beautiful girls, Emma (above) and Rebecca (Beca Boo)
I got married to an amazing guy (yes how lucky am i??), I can't believe that we are coming up to our 5th wedding anniversary in February 2011.
I'm very drawn to thinking of health & life in a holistic way.
I can't spell to save myself (and my grammar can be rather shocking as well)
I'm a Kid Start Educator - so look after up to four children under the age of five in my home on any given day ... its great!
I love herbs - nothing better then popping out to the garden and picking amazing plants to add to a meal - or into some boiling water for a refreshing cup of tea.
I grew up on various Dairy farms ... having moved 3 times when i was growing up.
My family and i live on 2.5 Acres on the Taranaki coast - we love it here, great views, great community and perfect place to raise our kids.
I love baking - but its not to often that i stick to a recipe (a 'skill' of which my Mother and Grandmother also possess)
I’m easily addicted to all things crafty - Sewing, Beading, Cross stitch, Knitting, Scrapping (Digi & Paper), Card-making, Painting - you name it i’ll give it ago .. and recently added spinning!! & very addicted to craft swaps.
I have a love of fabric - browns, reds, greens, simple patterns and who could go past black and white.
I'm becoming an even keener gardener - I've always loved harvesting fresh veges from the garden, but recently become even more involved with the growing side of things and also flowers - I love our roses that we acquired when we moved here.
I love quotes - a positive outlook is great and find these help keep my mind on track.
I can be very lazy .... a trait i'm working on changing one step at a time.
As a kid i had a very messy room - it consisted of a constant horizontal wardrobe (yip can't think of anymore)
I totally have the best family & mates ever! ... sure can depend on them when my energy is low and a hug is all i need ... or a kick up the arse! ... yip love you all xxx

So now I challenge you ... whats an interesting fact that you know about me that I've over looked? post it below in the comments as i'd love to read it :)

ME: Watch this Space ...

2010-11-08T20:46:00.002+13:00

Gen friend over at Purls Paws is taking part in a challenge and invited her readers to join. I thought it sounded like a great idea and have taken her up on that challenge.

This is what you have to do each day....

Day 01- A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself.
Day 02- The meaning behind your Blog name.
Day 03- A picture of you and your friends.
Day 04- A habit that you wish you didn’t have
Day 05- A picture of somewhere you’ve been to
Day 06- Favorite super hero and why
Day 07- A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you
Day 08- Short term goals for this month and why.
Day 09- Something you’re proud of in the past few days
Day 10- Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Bored, Hyped, Mad
Day 11- Another picture of you and your friends
Day 12- How you found out about Blogger and why you made one
Day 13- A letter to someone who has hurt you recently
Day 14- A picture of you and your family
Day 15- Put your iPod on shuffle: First 10 songs that play
Day 16- Another picture of yourself
Day 17- Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why
Day 18- Plans/dreams/goals you have
Day 19- Nicknames you have; why do you have them
Day 20- Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future
Day 21- A picture of something that makes you happy
Day 22- What makes you different from everyone else
Day 23- Something you crave for a lot
Day 24- A letter to your parents
Day 25- What I would find in your bag
Day 26- What you think about your friends
Day 27- Why are you doing this 30 day challenge
Day 28- A picture of you last year and now, how have you changed since then?
Day 29- In this past month, what have you learned
Day 30- Your favorite song.

Now i'm joining in from day 4 - tomorrow, better late then never right?

Sewing: 2nd in charge ... for Homemade Christmas

2010-10-27T20:59:00.000+13:00

So santa has started the list of sewing I've 'planned' for this years home made Christmas - yes you read right my 'Goal' this Christmas is to remind myself & teach my children that you don't 'need' to buy into the commercial hype of Christmas. So the list is long as I have a stocking for each of the girls & one for Hubby (ideas welcome!!)

so heres the first Item:

A reversible apron for Emma a.k.a 2nd in charge in the kitchen. Tonight she rolled out a tray of ginger nut biscuits herself so i think this is going to be greatly appreciated (well i hope!!)

I've also been busy sewing stock for Flat Tack - more Nappy Wallets and another Satchel Bag -- oh i wish there were more hours in the day to craft all the things in my head, but alas i still have 2 goats to feed, Kids to teach the ways of the world & garden that I've started weeding ..... Rome wasn't built in a day right?!?

Sewing: Todays Creations

2010-10-23T21:26:00.001+13:00

Its been a busy day here as between the chores of running solo, i've been creating some new items for {Flat Tack}.

The more I draft in my design book the more i want to transform my ideas and patterns into garments & accessories, so to sit down at the end of the day with two new patterns born is so rewarding.

Firstly the Nappy Wallet - now as a Mum there comes a time where you find carrying the nappy bag out for quick trips is a touch of an over kill when all you seem to be using is the essentials. I've been carrying them in a wet bag but think this wallet has just a touch more class.
Perfect to just slip in your bag as you pop out for a quick trip.

and secondly today I designed this Satchel Bag to the fabric - the flowers actually have silver outlining that the camera hasn't shown & i love it! (hence putting the rest back into stash to become a A-line skirt at this stage ) The straps a great length to cross over from shoulder to hip and it fits a a4 book or two fine.

So theres my busy day ... how did you fill yours?

Just a wee something on the side

2010-10-21T21:05:00.005+13:00

So with all the crafting I've been up to lately, I have decided to put some items up for sale - exciting!

so heres a wee launch for

I'm one crafty Mum that loves to create unique items for myself & my children.

People asked me to start creating items for them - I accepted and became Flat Tack

Flat Tack is here to offer you unique handmade items made from the ♥.

Selling locally at markets or if theres something you see and must have, then buying online is also an option - just flick me a message.

Unique Crafty & Handmade Items

- Bags
- Nappy Wallets
- Girls Tops & Dresses
- Unique Accessories
- Aprons

Office Items
- Book Covers
- Fabric Pin/Thumb Tacks
- Fabric Magnets

Craft Notions
- Stitch Markers
- Pin Cushions
- Crafty Bits & Bobs Holder - perfect in your knitting bag to hold the odds and ends

& hopefully the odd Tutorial ♥

But with becoming addicted to the art of sewing and as i learn i hope to pass on tips, tricks and tutorials i find helpful. I'm also here to inspire and motivate you as a fellow crafter.

Stop by, say hi and i hope you 'like' being inspired with Flat Tack via a facebook page (of course right!) and I've added a page on my blog.

Much love

Sam xx

oh and heres a few pics of my latest sewing successes

Knitting: Naki #6 Yarn Swap

2010-10-06T20:53:00.004+13:00

Yip another swap - they are just so much fun!

Our local knitting group is such a wonderful group of lovely supportive ladies (and the odd husband that appears at supper time and then usually slips away again ;) )

Its so great as a stay at home mum, to have deserved time out together and have like-minded people to lend an ear when needed or most importantly to be an ear for others - something I've learn't in recent years is you just never know how much its appreciated xx

So with our weekly catchup between sharing laughs and a great time not only do we enjoy the odd block of chocolate and some amazing baking - we also have Swap nights and this post is all about #6

This time out theme was : Fairytales .. i love this wee 'blurb' Nyree wrote for this swap

.... according to The Naki Folklore

Once upon a time, far far away (The Naki) lived a beautiful flock of women. These beautiful woman needed beautiful things. What could be more beautiful than fine yarns and gifts you say? Well my dears....fine yarns hand dyed none the less and gifts chosen carefully by crafting sisters of the beautiful women. Legend has it that these crafting sisters set to work searching high and low across many lands and seas (ay Laura!) to find many perfect things for the beautiful women. These gifts will one day be revealed to those who wait with only the most reserved patience. The date set for this shall be the 5th October 2010.

Heres my swap I received from Laura

Theme: Sleeping Beauty

Included was:

-200g Little Wool Company Handyed Tower Vines … (maybe longies for beca?)
- A Handmade Spindle (WOW)
- 110g Fibre Roving - merino, silk, glitter mix YUMMO!!!! - will be spun with a scarf for me in mind (YAY)
- little bottle of Jacobs Creek Bubbles (saving that for a lovely summer evening)

Thanks Laura its lovely - i do love this picture its crisp and rich green reminding me of the spring grass growth Lilly goat is enjoying out in the sun today.

And the swap i put together:

Was for Lizzie the fairytale she chose was Hansel & Gretel, i had a lot of fun with this one thinking about how to include aspects of the story and suit it to her family - seems it was well received as her little boy is a bit under the weather so an activity book was a great distraction xxx

I included:

- 200g Bendigo Classic handyed in ‘Candyland’

- Kiddie Cookie Mix Jar

- Bread Trail Stitch Markers

- Sweet Rainbow Little Girl Clippies

- Hansel & Gretel’s Little Boy Activity Book & Pens

- ‘A pocket full of Pebbles’ stones

which Emma collected and wanted to add to ‘Mummys house box for Lizzie’ :)

Love these cookie jars - may have to remember this for presents heading into the festive season

The yarn is dyed with food colouring, fixed with vinegar can't wait to see how it knits up ... am thinking of trying some acid dyes in the future but do like the 'safe' aspect of the non toxic option.

There were about 8/10 ish other people in the swap and the parcels were just so great, i really love seeing what people come up with heres some links to them:

Kate's Blog

Sheryls Blog

Hannahs Blog

Knitting: update time

2010-09-30T20:37:00.002+13:00

Okay so this month i decided to take part in a Knit-a-long on Ravelry with a pattern called

Kaia Babydoll

Its a well written pattern that even a beginner would be fine following, its written for circulars meaning no seaming - just a continuous knit :)

I've loved this brown and pink yarn sitting together in my stash for a while now and thought that this dress would make the most of them. I 'played' with some embellishing and i also love how it turned out :) - only alteration - was no eyelet round, + knitting a few rounds in the brown with the first one being k2, s1 to 'mirror' the top of the pink before the lace hem, casting off purl wise.

Such a farm girl is miss Beca - so natural the 'sketch' picture has to be my favorite

The second one i cast on the yarn i won from Red Riding Hood Yarns as i mentioned last week. Was so excited to cast it on - the merino is lovely and soft a true pleasure to knit the colour is most 'true' in the picture above. Will be interesting to see how it wears but its ply'd nicely so i hope theres not to much pilling.

Thanks again for the lovely yarn Hannah - i do believe this is the first RRHY finished object too ;)

and in true Beca style one shouldn't stand still and 'pose' when mum desperately wants a photo - cheeky monkey!!

Ravelry Project Page #1 & 2

Farmlet: We have goats!

2010-09-24T12:18:00.004+12:00

Three of them now!

Lilly Goat (2yr old Saanen Doe) came home from learn about living on a Teather in a built up area after she broke loose when we got her - and so far so good Shes got a great personality and seems to be loving her new surroundings.

And then in the weekend we adopted two kids - both boys with mischief in their bounce and love in their eyes. We have named them Bert & Ernie they are British Alpine so not sure what / when their colouring will change but traditionally they are black with white markings on their face.

The girls are loving playing with them while they discover our gardens - soon they will start learning about living on a teather as well in hope that they will control the grass under the trees and around the boundaries.

Its great to have animals with amazing personalities around - Beca has really taken to tending to their every need. Whereas Emma asks question after question about them and thinks that they should sleep in her room - maybe she takes after her mother there.

Mark has also learnt not to listen to me and realised that my sense of judgement is lacking in some areas after he spent an evening building a house for Lilly goat that doesn't quite fit her - oops!

I sure do have some learning to do, but i still stand by my thoughts as when i was a child our family goats lived in a drum and i swear they could turn around in it - they were quite content!

Just shows how viewing the world through the eyes of a child is different then that of a adult - all fun and minimal responsibility (how i miss those days at times .....

I WON: Red Riding Hood Yarns Giveaway

2010-09-23T16:43:00.005+12:00

Isn't it lovely!

Hannah from Red Riding Hood Yarns has just launched her own hand dyed yarn online store. And there was a giveaway to celebrate this success which i won! - i know how exciting! - nothing like winning something to lift the spirits!

I've been watching her weekly updates from the side lines as i really should be sticking to my "knit the stash" agreement - but there have been some lovely colour-ways released weekly and temptation can only last so long i'm sure!

But back to my prize - at Tuesdays knitting i was hand delivered 200g of her lovely 8ply Merino yarn in "Boysenberry Sorbet" - 100g variegated & 100g solid trim - with two wee Chocolate Sante Bars YUM ... yarn and chocolate a perfect pair.

So thanks heaps Hannah

i'm still not sure what to knit with it yet but can't wait to put it to good use - any suggestions?

Mail Call: TNN Yarn Lovers Swap Box

2010-09-22T12:43:00.004+12:00

In this swap you can take one thing from a box of goodies and replace it then send on to the next person on the list.

After much time and effort drooling, patting and imagining the possibilities - I took out some lovely Vintage Purls sock yarn and a needle for socks - however i'm not sure if this will end up as socks or a scarf yet ......

Yarn is a bit brighter in real life - now to wait for round two ......

Sewing: Modern Cloth Nappy

2010-09-10T22:27:00.007+12:00

And its so cute!!!

You just have to love the amazing nappies that are now available with 'Modern Cloth Nappies' - this one has lime cow print PUL and cow suede inner for easy clean ;)

Since before Emma was born i decided that i would use cloth nappies on my children, there were many pros and cons but when it comes down to it - using cloth makes me smile.

If its something you want to look into then theres a great web site that you must visit -

The Nappy Network

it has all the info you need and a great forum full of ladies that are more than happy to help you understand the colourful and rewarding world of cloth.

but yes its taken me this long to start making some cute wee 'pocket nappies' myself.

This one is a 'Sams Sneaky Snappy Nappy' .... thanks to my good friend Kate as half my shopping was in her stash ;) - and she also passed on some expert advice and started a new addiction for me! ..... Her work is amazing though and i can only aspire to create the cuteness that comes from her and her machine.

Let me tell you more ..... Like me Kate is a mum to two wee girls, but she has also created her own business from the ground up, with a year or two of extensive testing and ongoing development to the needs of her customers - all amongst the daily chores and demands of a busy mum.

Shes the founder of Bib and Tucker - Boutique New Zealand made cloth nappies. They sure are the best fit nappies we've used - not to mention the have an amazing cuteness factor built in. Her latest collections have included some soft minky nappies (YUM!) and of course her unique hand painted nappies - these really are a work of art!

such time and thought go into each and every one.

Bib and Tucker Spring Bird Nappy from the latest collection

Bib and Tucker nappies seem (by my eyes) to have a firm following which is not surprising as not only are they NZ made, the quality high and their fit so good, but Kate is forever listening to feedback she receives and tweaking the small things that count to improve her product - the tell of a true key to success.

Bib and Tucker also have a blog - when you can keep up with the latest collections that have been released, link to the Etsy store and contact Kate with any questions or an order - I hear that her latest shipment headed to the UK - what a cool achievement!

Kate sure has a true passion for cloth nappies - congrats on your success my friend :)

And thanks for providing my girl with a nappy that i never want to hide away xxx

Have you got a nappy that you never want to cover up?

My Creative Space: I've been productive (Picture Heavy)

2010-09-08T20:42:00.013+12:00

At the moment my crafting is along the lines of sewing!

.... heres whats been stitched lately

This Smocket may turn up somewhere in NZ soon ......

This one seems to have someone in love with it already - but is awaiting snaps or buttons .....

This ones really sweet ... and homeless thus far

Shhhhh this project is under wraps and heading to be amongst some true goodness

Theres two Bits & Bobs holders - currently homeless

Another Bits & Bobs holder that found a new home :)

& something all cut out & ready to sew ..... and then my iron died so its going to have to wait :( - now what to do today?? - clean.... boo hiss

Anything take your fancy ;)

If you like the idea of seeing what crafting people have been up to then head over to Kootoyoo for a creative space roundup :)

Swaps: TNN Surprise Me #2

2010-09-05T18:15:00.009+12:00

Yay this swap arrived at its new owner Jen yesterday so i can now show you all the crafting that went into it :)

Jen requested a needle case, so after hours looking through fabrics i finally found a lovely red and cream quilting cotton to co-ordinate with the deep red and brown curtain fabric i fell in love with. Certainly interesting to sew though - the machine didn't like it much but i got there in the end.

Crafted up a wee Work in Progress bag to compliment it as well - although Emma though that this was perfect for her dolls it managed to find its way with the rest of the swap in the end.

Adding some additions to stash and this great wee card making book i found in the shop when browsing to go with a sheet of 'graffiti' stickers, Quote Plaques, Plaster Hearts and a little boy which i think would look so cute on a baby card <3

Hope you have some great crafting Jen, and enjoy your new needle holder and wip bag xxx

Garden: It sure is spring! (full of photos)

2010-09-05T12:20:00.006+12:00

Well today I stopped at took at look at the garden through the lens of the camera ... it shows just how nature can create beauty - as i think about those whos beauty has been upset and or destroyed by nature with the weekends quake in Christchurch. So look around you, appreciate what nature has provided you with as it could be changed again before you know it.

Now i'll let the photos show you the amazing picture our garden is at the moment

oh ... and I've been busy creating in the kitchen too

- Divine Pumpkin Bread & Carrot cake mmmm

The glasshouse..

Our chooks - now have 8 whom are laying 6 + eggs daily

Emma showing me how high she thinks the strawberries should grow

Sewing: Smocket

2010-08-31T09:45:00.003+12:00

I've loved the look and idea of a smocket for a while now. I think my girls would get some great wear out of them and they are so sweet - so i set to work following two tutorials i found on the internet.

Firstly this one: Reversible Pinafore Dress

and then this one: Happy Smocket

I kept the side seams though as found it was a better use of fabric (and i'm sure one to get the most i can out of my fabric)

This one was made from my Fabric Stash and i have made it reversible.

One side is a lovely natural linen with a pocket on it, and the other is a blue paisley with some basic applique trees - another skill self taught and needing more practice.

I love how the pocket and trees have turned out

This one was made for one of Emma's friends birthdays, Emma thought that Rio would like some clippies as well so i came up with this simple design of just wrapping thread around them then sewing on a button to match the smocket - Simple and affective.

I can certainly see many more of these being made in the future and think they look great with tights or over jeans and i love how you actually endup making two in one (and a note for the future to take more care top stitching oops!! )

and i think local mums would snap these up at the local markets too, right?

Knitting: A little dress for a little girl

2010-08-22T20:34:00.004+12:00

The biggest item I've knitted thus far in my just over one year of knitting

I've learn't how to read a pattern, and a few new ways to wrap yarn around needles to get some rather cute end results.

The pattern I followed for this dress is the Oriental Lily by tiKKI

Its a very easy knit in the round, but on this one I've used a lace hem pattern rather then garter stitch, and i just love the way that its come out - nice and girly but not 'too fancy' (those who know me know i'm not a frills girl - more of a plain jane) even if it looks a tad christmas'y

Heres the RAVELRY page for those whom want more details.

It was a beautiful spring day here today and Beca always likes to help out Dad with the task at hand - new dress or not its all about mucking in to her. Our cheeky wee monkey!

I'm so happy its done - doesn't she look impressed!

So Happy

2010-08-19T08:33:00.012+12:00

And here she is - skirt has turned out a touch big (over estimated the elastic

while she was sleeping) ... but not bad for first effort :) ....

she

loves

and

thats

what

counts

and now ready for Preschool ... yes my big 3and a half year old princess xxx

Rainbow Request

2010-08-18T22:30:00.003+12:00

So Emma is going through a wee skirt stage ....... and i thought that i'd have a bit of fun

This was a very basic skirt, from a rectangle - it's the first one i have made since high school (actually not sure I've ever sewn a skirt) - but there are some amazing free little girls skirt patterns on some wicked blogs that i'll link to for you over our skirt making phase.

But Emma had a request after i went fabric shopping today, i came home with a lovely mix of fabrics and ribbons (a touch overwhelming really) so she sighed and said 'just a rainbow skirt mummy' ... so i got my thinking cap on and came up with this:

I'll take some new pictures in the morning as you really can't see in these that I've used silver thread on the ribbons we found today, and have lined it as well - all the material is basics from stash (typical!).

No doubt there will be a very excited wee girl in the morning ......

Mail Call: TNN Suprise Me Swap Take 2

2010-08-16T15:28:00.010+12:00

So we came home Saturday morning to find a box by the door ... Exciting! .. I love mail, not even sure mark noticed it until afterwards when i was thinking of the possibilities!

The box was full of clippies, ribbons and some black and white fabric.

The clippies are a big hit with the girls even before i've had a chance to put ribbon on them!

and for those who are a tad lost a quick GOOGLE IMAGE SEARCH will have you up to date ;)

Thanks Heaps Krisha! ... it was just what we were after now the girls hair is finally growing - and i love the nifty box ;)

And here are two wee clips ;)

Whats on my needles?

2010-08-14T21:05:00.006+12:00

So i thought i'd let you in on some pics of some WIP's i have .... soon to be completed!

Blue Jeans Baby!!

Using the yarn Kristy dyed in the Naki Scavenger hunt

Dolce Toddler Socks

From some sample yarn in my Blendy Box

And Becas Dress - now this i'm so proud of - I LOVE it!!

Yarn from our latest Naki Swap

Although finishing them seems to be dragging at the moment .. oops

A bit of (NEEDED) time out

2010-08-14T13:57:00.005+12:00

When you become a parent you begin to wonder what you ever did with your time before 'the kids' as it seems some days you do nothing but tend to them. You also start to wonder if you will ever get a break from the continuous demands there are, and if your like me - you start to realise that its important for sanity's sake to make time for yourself, and for your relationship.

So yesterday we were lucky enough to have some escape time.

Took the opportunity to try somewhere we hadn't been for dinner before, after a few laps up and down the main street (for old times sake) we parked outside the Ultra Lounge.

Have to say we made a great choice! Its not often my Hubby and i go out for dinner these days and the older i get the more i'm open to trying new things. When it came to choosing a wine to compliment my steak i had ordered i automatically looked at the reds - but the waiter suggested i sample one that was on trial for the wine list. Not one to say no, he brought a Sauvignon Blanc to the table which was fresh and crisp, so inviting i decided to start with a glass (those whom know me will know Sav B is my fav!) ... Although i also pre-ordered a Hawkes Bay Cab Merlot to side my main, call me a traditionalist ... in the end both glasses were a good choice and sure found their way straight to my head.

Dinner was amazing though - starting with the old faithful garlic bread which melted in the mouth at the first bite. It was a bonus when we were served with a complimentary taste of soup of the day - Coconut, Tomato with Vanilla bean oil from chef and thats when i knew dinner wasn't going to disappoint. Main course came Fish of the day - Hapuka pan fried with scallops, prawns and a Jerusalem artichoke puree for Mark which i was lucky enough to sample (er i mean let melt in my mouth) before the plate was empty. My Main was the Beef fillet which i asked to be on kumera mash instead of polenta, complimented with chestnuts, baby beets, broad beans and spinach drizzled with truffle oil - now you know the chef is sure of his meat when they don't provide a steak knife - and they were right it was that tender you didn't need one. WOW seriously the most flavorsome meal i've had for a while, i certainly understand the 'fuss' over truffle oil now. Plates almost licked clean! & no time for desert due to savoring the moment all i could!

Over dinner we decided that we'd head to a movie rather than G Taranaki and Inception certainly didn't disappoint either, i think i forgot to blink from about halfway. Totality worth it though and as i was finishing late and the weather was appalling we decided to wing it, making a night of it and took the chance to catch up with my pre-kids work mates @ The Waterfront Hotel, booking the last available room for the evening (Mark was SO relieved when they said a standard room was left vacant - i think we were both expecting to hear Penthouse EEK!) It certainly was great to have a true night out stopping at a bar or two on the walk back from the movies (in hindsight not the best night to 'wear in' new boots) but i must confess knowing how good the Salmon Eggs Benny is at Ultra Lounge, i had already decided that was my brunch the following morning so it was great to cut down on travel between meals!

However ...... it is a tad embarrassing when you turn up for brunch at the same place you went for dinner, in the same clothes ..... and have the same waiter!

Oh well we soon got over that and enjoyed the rest of our 'break' with more mouth watering, flavour filled food and top rate service.

Now back to reality & how special is it when you get that 'love you - missed you hug' from such special little people, love them both so much xxxx

But hope its not such a long wait until the next one hehe

Online shopping? - Handmade

2010-08-11T19:45:00.004+12:00

One of my favorite crafty places for online shopping is Felt

Now some of you crafty ladies will know about this place, but for those who don't its full of some amazing things made in NZ. I endeavor to one day have a felt store .... but at the moment are far to busy trying to keep up with crafting for my friends and family. So in the mean time if i'm in need of some inspiration this is one place i head - aside from all the amazing blogs I've come across and Ravelry is also a great source of my inspiration.

There is also a real value in Handmade items .....

Be warned though ... it is a very addictive place you can lose track of time in

August .... already!

2010-08-11T11:38:00.003+12:00

So far this month our letterbox feels like its attracting nothing much but bills .... I've failed to notice the car WOF until it is now a week over due .... great start huh! ..... seems that theres a pattern here. It feels like there are not enough hours in the day to complete the chores that need doing - or perhaps i'm not doing them fast enough?

But everyday I've been taking a moment out to stop and think,

I've noticed how much my children teach me,

be it the small things like how fun it is to just smile and giggle when pulling washing off the line as mums trying to put it on,

to the big things like how important and happy we feel when love is forever present in our lives. I've found that on days when i stop being controlled by what has to be done and take a moment to share and feel the love with my girls our house runs at a happier level.

Being a Stay at home mum comes with its own challenges and benefits, its only occurred to me lately that there are a lot of things i never realised as i was growing up - like how much you can teach your children by getting them involved in whats happening, not to mention the ease and sense of achievement and involvement that comes from doing something together. We really are our children's first teachers in life, we role model such basic skills that we don't even know we are doing.

It amazes me some days when i stop and watch the girls play, Emma is such a wee delight leading and teaching skills to her little sister - of course there are the moments when she turns and says in the harsh but not quite yelling voice "Rebecca i have told you, i just need you to stop touching that" or "i'm busy, just wait" .... just as i have role modeled to her no doubt, it does bring a tear to my eye when she recalls moments that i'd prefer not to have happened.

But it reminds me to stop and look at the way i'm acting at times because that is how my children see me and although i know that i'm not perfect, i do have the passion to try my best to be the best mum i can to my amazing blessings - thats all i can do.

Now i think I've babbled enough - and the purpose of this post was actually to say i'm starting some spring cleaning and i'm feeling change in the air ... so watch this space as when i have time my blog is going to get a revamp .....

... is there anything you want to see more of?

.... is there anything you'd like to see less of?

I'm open for any suggestions xxx

Hope your having a lovely, sunny and happy day

Naki Swap #5 - Fat Quarter Themed

2010-07-30T16:29:00.011+12:00

So last night was Swap night at Knitting ... oh how I LOVE swaps!!

Our brief was: FAT QUARTER SWAP

The Draw: Tues 18 May - Wrap 1 fat quarter with your name and any important info inside (eg: must have 8ply or make something with the fa

t quarter) We'll draw fat quarters to use for our swap. If you want to parti

cipate but can't make the date, just let me know and I'll sort it out. The Swap: 100g 4ply/200g 8ply Gift worth approx $5 + stuff from stash if you want. You can use the fat quarter if you want, but there is no obligation to, if you don't make anything from it, j

ust return it with the swap. Reveal date end of June

And as usual there was some amazing parcels that had been put together! and new skills learnt. It was my job to be photographer of the night so here are some the swaps:

For Laura from Angela

For Lizzie from Sheryl

For Angela from Kate

For Julia from Laura

For Kristy from Julia

For Kate from Me (Sam)

For Me (Sam) from Lizzie

For Sheryl from Kristy

All stunning!

Spinners Sunday

2010-07-25T16:16:00.004+12:00

Well this week I managed to find time to get the wheel out, first time since February. I even learn't some new techniques, including some Navajo plying. In my recent efforts i also came across a website that i found very helpful - The Joy of Handspinning it has some great information and videos. .... now Hubby thinks I should spin the possum fur he pucked for some gloves for him

(I quickly put the wheel away ;)

So heres the 100g Vintage Purls Perendale combed silver i spun into 2 singles then plied together - there are some amazing colours in it which i didn't even notice while i was spinning at night - Morag @ Vintage Purls is certainly able to get some amazing results with her dye jobs!

I finally found a pattern - Misti Chunky Ribs & Ruffles Scarf that clicked with the yarn and it only took 3 evenings amongst the chores of a mother to complete.

No doubt it will get a lot of use before winter is out!

Link to Project Page on Ravelry

Soft & Sweet

2010-07-15T16:29:00.006+12:00

So now that its made its destination I can reveal the pin cushion

which I made for the recent Swap I participated in.

It Included:

A 'Girly' Pincushion filled with Fudge

A Scissor Charm

Sweet wee note card that could be recycled into a card front or fridge magnet

And it was all a bit of trial and error ... first time i'd gone 'designer' fabric shopping (on purpose) .. found some nice 'girly' fabric from a lovely Collection from Abbey Rose (i think - eek sorry) and created this pincushion from an old baby food jar with the idea that you could pop some thread and buttons in the jar or extra pins.

I then hunted out a white fudge recipe which ended up being sweetened condensed milk and white chocolate melted down together with a dash of pink food colouring something i hadn't baked before so was an interesting experiment - not much you can do to stop chocolate and condensed milk tasting good though luckily!

I also made a wee Scissor charm to match the pincushion and a note card - all gratefully received

I've been on a wee pin cushion 'phase' ... watch this space ;)

Mail Call: full of surprises

2010-07-07T10:07:00.006+12:00

Yip more mail for me today (one of the bonuses of swaps ;) )

This was an amazing wee package and I truly did not know what to expect - as there are quite a few crafty pass times i have so it may have been full of supplies for my stash or crafted items.

But the bag was full of both! ....

A wee reversible? bag that will be for knitting WIP's (funny as I've been thinking of a design like this lately!) Its very cool to close it the long strap goes through the short one - and the fabric is very cool!

And a pile of stash bits and tool

- Divine Kiwiana fabric

- Ashford WPI tool for spinning

- some cute wee Charms

- Mini Board Book Kit

- Handmade Foam Flowers

- Little Birthday Embellishments

- Textured blue cards & envelopes

- Clear alphabet stamps - have been looking for something like this for ages so now i need a clear block for them they are super funky!

Now to be a super sluth and find out just where it came from -- thats if i can stop checking it all out again and imagining uses i can find for it ;)

Thanks Swappee

Fibre Filled RAoK

2010-07-05T17:11:00.004+12:00

Yes you read that right - lucky lucky me was the recipient of an amazing Random act of Kindness - Fibre Style. I really can not thank the person whom sent me such AMAZING fluffy mail enough!!! … on a crap day when all your expecting is bills a surprise like that is amazing and i’m still buzzing, and stroking, and in awwwwww!

so heres some pics …..

Now to find some spinning time

and as there was a return address i sent a wee set of stitch back as a thank you - was the least i could do for such a RAoK

THANKS AGAIN!!!!

My Knitting

2010-07-04T22:06:00.004+12:00

I did mention that I would update with all the knitting I've done - so heres a post full of pics :)

Aviatrix Baby Hat

Swirl Baby Hat

A skirt that came about from the Dale of Norway Dress Pattern - lets just say I've learn't how important gauge is now

Lattice Scarf - For me!!

Chocolate Cardi - YUM

Pinwheel Dolly Blanket

And a Hoodie to match the pants and hand-warmers I've knitted - this set actually got selected for the Creative Fiber Exhibition - Fibreworks

Gosh looking at it all like that makes me tired! .. but knitting is great fun - and wonderful at making use of car traveling! ... i'm also working on a few wee baby things for a wonderful friend of mine .. and wow not only is newborn quick to knit they are so cute and little!!

Mailbox goodies!!

2010-07-03T19:00:00.002+12:00

look what showed up for me today ......

A pincushion!! ... it is so sweet! I've been eying up this pattern for a while and its just so cute and lovely - very well sewn i feel so lucky. The fabric is very cool as well - and i'm sure with all this sewing i'm doing it will get spiked very soon!

And it came wrapped in this cool fabric - lucky lucky me!!

and ... after the one i have made gets to its new owner i'll share that too

Another TNN Swap

2010-07-02T21:36:00.002+12:00

This time it was a surprise me swap

- so i made up a package for HappyChik ..... her wedding cake was black and pink ... so i thought these may be her colours - and the requests were all for knitting accessories so ask and thy shall receive.

I sent:

One of my new designs a 'Knitting Hold Alls'

complete with a set of stitch markers, needle & mini scissors and a scissor charm

And a 'Make it yourself' Interchangeable Knitting needle case set for Jo's pattern

Now for a bit of mail box stalking to see what turns up for me!!

Sewing for knitting - peas in a pod!

2010-06-30T21:58:00.005+12:00

Yip ... I've been working on these for a wee while - and some of you may notice that the material looks oddly familiar | They do indeed match my bag ;) but hey i love it so that sall that counts right!

So the big one was made following Jo's Pattern for a Interchangeable needle case - really easy to follow and is a great case. I altered bits to use the material i had the best and made small adjustments in how some bits were sewn together. But they are the first zips i have sewn in since Form 3 - so its not to bad ;)

Emma chose the buttons - again my trick of sewing to together for something a bit more unique :)

And the smaller one .... is a design I've worked on so keep checking and soon i let you all know more about it - but its the perfect hold 'most' for any knitter!

Now back to that knitting ..... I have a few finished items to share in the next post

Wordless Wednesday ..&.. Things I'm Loving

2010-06-10T11:32:00.003+12:00

I MUST stay away from craft shops .... and craft my way through stash!!

some of my favs in there though

Completion, leftovers, and a new family favourite

2010-06-07T18:52:00.004+12:00

YUM - Emma making mud pies

Yes, its when your at the right place, at the right time, that memories can begin to be made.

And today was no exception.

After a hard days work finishing the glass house - yes that's right finally and in time for winter vegetables, our glass house is finished

Doesn't it look great!!

Anyway .. all I had planed for Dinner was leftovers

(a dinner I always look forward to as it never takes much preparation)

and I was looking forward to a easy/lazy evening when I came across a request for a Apple Crumble Pie recipe on a Forum I frequent.

Now those that know me would know that I love to bake - puddings being no exception ... so when the recipe was posted and I knew we had apples to be used, I felt compelled to try it! and boy oh boy how lucky we are .. this has now been entered into our family favourites and I can see it being made over and over to 'use up' those apples! .. and who wouldn't enjoy a serving when its complimented with cream and custard.

It even looks divine!

And I'm not sure if it breaches copyright ... but here's the recipe for you all to enjoy as well.

Apple Crumble Pie

Ingredients for the base
125g butter
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 egg
1 1/2 cups flour

For the filling
Stewed apples

For the topping
4 tablespoons brown sugar
8 tablespoons flour
50g butter
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cloves

Mix base ingredients together and press into a greased dish or individual cups. Press some of the mixture up the sides as well. Fill the dishes with stewed apple. To make the crumble, mix dry ingredients together and rub in butter. Spoon topping over stewed apple; bake at 180 centigrade for 30 minutes

Enjoy!